Green architecture and construction is not just a trend, it should be a compulsory part of construction practices, said speakers at a seminar held on September 25 in central Da Nang city.

In a country where swift economic development has resulted in fast urbanisation and worsening pollution, green construction techniques are urgently needed to reduce the depletion of natural resources and gas emissions.

Green construction can also reduce costs, pointed out Hoang Manh Nguyen of the Tropical Architecture Institute in Hanoi Architecture University.

This factor is especially important for Vietnam because it is not as wealthy as other countries in the region, he said.

Yannick Millet, senior consultant of the Vietnam Green Building Council, encouraged creative changes to design, operation and maintenance.

However, other participants emphasised that it was also important to keep in mind the distinct features of localities and the country's 54 ethnic cultures.

They also called for the development of green construction techniques that addressed climate change as well as a constitutional framework for green construction.

Attendees learned about the global Holcim Awards for Sustainable Construction, with prizes totally valued at 2 million USD.-VNA